Fall Lawn Preparation on Long Island – What You Should Be Doing Right Now

As the vibrant greens of summer fade into the warm tones of autumn, homeowners on Long Island may think it’s time to hang up their gardening gloves. But in reality, fall is one of the most important seasons for lawn care. At Mickey’s Lawnscapes, we believe that what you do in the fall determines how healthy and lush your lawn will be in the spring. Here’s everything you need to know about preparing your lawn this fall.

1. Aeration: Give Your Lawn Room to Breathe

Over the summer, your soil becomes compacted. Kids playing, barbecues, and general foot traffic press down on your lawn and reduce the soil’s ability to absorb water, nutrients, and oxygen. Fall is the ideal time to aerate your lawn, especially if you haven’t done it in a year or more.

Aeration uses a machine to remove small plugs of soil, loosening compacted ground and creating channels for nutrients and water to reach the roots. This not only promotes root growth but also prepares your lawn for overseeding.

2. Overseeding: Filling in the Gaps

After aeration, overseeding is your next step. Fall’s cooler temperatures and occasional rain create the perfect environment for new grass seed to germinate. Overseeding fills in bare patches, thickens your turf, and helps crowd out weeds.

Our team at Mickey’s Lawnscapes uses seed blends that are specifically selected for Long Island’s climate and soil conditions, giving your lawn its best shot at success.

3. Fall Fertilizing: Feed Your Grass Before Winter

Many people fertilize in the spring and forget about fall. But fertilizing in the fall is arguably more important. Fall fertilizer encourages deep root development, boosts plant strength for winter survival, and provides energy reserves that kickstart growth next spring.

We use a custom-blended, slow-release fertilizer that gives your grass the nutrients it needs—without promoting excessive growth right before dormancy.

4. Leaf Removal: Not Just About Aesthetics

Sure, a blanket of colorful fall leaves can look pretty, but left on your lawn, they become a barrier. Leaves block sunlight, trap moisture, and encourage mold, fungi, and pests. Mickey’s Lawnscapes offers scheduled leaf cleanup services throughout the season to ensure your lawn stays healthy and tidy.

Mulching some of your leaves is okay—your mower can shred them into small pieces that break down and return nutrients to the soil. But thick layers must be removed.

5. Adjust Your Mowing Height

As fall progresses, gradually lower your mowing height. This helps prevent snow mold and other fungal diseases during winter. However, don’t scalp your lawn—keep it around 2.5 to 3 inches. This allows enough leaf surface for photosynthesis while reducing matting from snow.

6. Keep Watering (If Needed)

If fall is dry, continue to water your lawn weekly. Grass still needs moisture to establish strong roots before winter. Reduce watering gradually as temperatures drop and natural rainfall increases.

7. Schedule a Soil Test

Before you invest in fertilizers and treatments, know what your soil actually needs. Mickey’s Lawnscapes can perform a soil test to determine pH levels and nutrient deficiencies. Then we tailor our care plan to deliver exactly what your lawn requires.

Why Choose Mickey’s Lawnscapes for Fall Lawn Care?

Since 1983, we’ve helped homeowners across the South Fork of Long Island care for their lawns the right way—with local knowledge, proven techniques, and attention to detail. We don’t just mow and go—we create a seasonal plan that supports your lawn’s year-round health.

If you’re ready to set your yard up for success next spring, give Mickey’s Lawnscapes a call at 631.668.9120 or reach out online. We’ll help your property stay beautiful, season after season.